Job Description

Qualifications & Skills

• EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUNDHigh school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s degree in materials science, civil engineering technology, or a related technical field preferred.
• EXPERIENCE & CERTIFICATION0–3 years of materials testing lab experience preferred. Certifications such as ACI Concrete Testing (Grade I), ACI Aggregate Testing, or NICET Soils or Concrete are highly desirable.
• TECHNICAL COMPETENCIESFamiliarity with construction materials testing (concrete, soils, aggregates, asphalt), operating and calibrating lab equipment, data analysis, and report generation.
• SAFETY & QUALITY AWARENESSKnowledge of laboratory safety regulations, PPE usage, and quality control measures in a testing environment.
• ORGANIZATIONAL & PHYSICAL ABILITIESStrong attention to detail, methodical approach to documentation, and the capacity to lift and maneuver heavy samples (up to ~50 lbs) and perform prolonged physical tasks.
• COMMUNICATION & COMPUTER SKILLSClear verbal and written communication with the ability to prepare concise, accurate reports. Proficiency with MS Office tools and/or lab data systems for logging, analysis, and reporting

As a Laboratory Technician in our Construction and Geotechnical Materials Lab, you’ll be hands-on in preparing and testing a variety of materials—such as soils, aggregates, concrete, and asphalt—to help ensure that testing services are accurate, reliable, and aligned with safety and quality standards.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• CONDUCT TESTING PROCEDURESPerform standardized lab tests (e.g., compression, Atterberg limits, grain-size, moisture content, asphalt density) on construction and geotechnical materials following ASTM, AASHTO, or DOT protocols.
• PREPARE SAMPLES AND EQUIPMENTPrepare specimens (cutting, molding, compacting) and set up necessary apparatus for testing. Ensure all testing equipment is properly calibrated, maintained, and operable.
• COLLECT, RECORD, AND ANALYZE RESULTSAccurately record test results and observations in lab logs or digital systems. Conduct basic calculations, analyze data, and summarize findings in technical reports.
• MAINTAIN QUALITY AND SAFETYAdhere strictly to company and regulatory safety protocols, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and lab safety procedures. Ensure the lab environment is clean, organized, and hazard‑free.
• SUPPORT TECHNICAL DOCUMENTATIONDraft or update standard operating procedures (SOPs), maintain detailed logs of equipment calibration and maintenance, and manage physical or digital test records.
• LAB EQUIPMENT UPKEEPProactively maintain testing instruments—perform routine calibration, troubleshoot malfunctions, and notify supervisors of repair needs.
• COLLABORATIVE ASSISTANCEWork alongside engineers, field staff, or project managers by delivering timely, accurate test results and technical insights to support project decisions.
• FIELD LAB SUPPORT (OPTIONAL)Assist field-based sample collection, in-situ testing, or transporting materials to the lab, depending on project needs.

Qualifications & Skills

• EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUNDHigh school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s degree in materials science, civil engineering technology, or a related technical field preferred.
• EXPERIENCE & CERTIFICATION0–3 years of materials testing lab experience preferred. Certifications such as ACI Concrete Testing (Grade I), ACI Aggregate Testing, or NICET Soils or Concrete are highly desirable.
• TECHNICAL COMPETENCIESFamiliarity with construction materials testing (concrete, soils, aggregates, asphalt), operating and calibrating lab equipment, data analysis, and report generation.
• SAFETY & QUALITY AWARENESSKnowledge of laboratory safety regulations, PPE usage, and quality control measures in a testing environment.
• ORGANIZATIONAL & PHYSICAL ABILITIESStrong attention to detail, methodical approach to documentation, and the capacity to lift and maneuver heavy samples (up to ~50 lbs) and perform prolonged physical tasks.
• COMMUNICATION & COMPUTER SKILLSClear verbal and written communication with the ability to prepare concise, accurate reports. Proficiency with MS Office tools and/or lab data systems for logging, analysis, and reporting.

The expected salary range for this position is listed below. The base range may be adjusted based on the specific location of the applicant. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.
$19.75 - $27.75 per hour
About Terracon
Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 7,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 180 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon’s growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace.
Terracon’s vision of “Together, we are best at people” is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
EEO Statement
Terracon is an EEO employer. We encourage qualified minority, female, veteran and disabled candidates to apply and be considered for open positions. We do not discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender, disability, age, or military status